AviNation Magazine Winter 2021

2021 WINTER

AT TR ACT, EDUCATE & EMPOWER YOUTH IN AVIATION

INSIDE My Path to the Left Seat Get a Head Start as a Future Aviator Triple Tree Aerodrome Wally Funk for Space Exploration

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Winter 2021

Supporter Index:

TABLE OF CONTENTS Mentor Minute: Networking & Resumes............................................................ 4 My Path to the Left Seat.....................................................................................6-9 My Grandfather.....................................................................................................10-11 USAF Captain Ilma Vallee................................................................................ 12-13

Please support these fine organizations Aviation Insurance Resources (AIR).................46 Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc................... 41 ByDanJohnson.com................................................46 Central Florida Aircraft Services........................44 Culver Props...............................................................46 DeLand Sport Aviation Showcase..................... 37

Kids‌ ‌in‌ ‌Space‌........................................................................................................ 14-15

Envoy............................................................................48

Get a Head Start as a Future Aviator.......................................................... 16-19

Experimental Aircraft Channel............................. 31

GETTING AIR: How A Skier Made the Jump To the Cockpit.............20-21

General Aviation News...........................................46

I’ll Fly Away................................................................................................................22

Just Aircraft LLC......................................................45

It’s a Family Thing............................................................................................. 24-25

KievProp America....................................................44

Triple Tree Aerodrome....................................................................................26-30 Video Game to Left Seat................................................................................ 32-35 Saying Thanks - LAC’s First Responders Fly-by..........................................36

LIFT Academy........................................................... 47 Lockwood Aviation.................................................. 31 M-Squared Aircraft, Inc........................................... 19 MATCO mfg................................................................ 15

EAA Aeroeducate Initiative Helps Young People Explore and Cultivate Aviation Interest....................................................................................37

Schweiss Doors.........................................................46

Wally Funk for Space Exploration............................................................. 38-40

Sensenich Propeller.................................................. 41

Flying today. Soaring tomorrow..................................................................42-43

STEM Pilot......................................................................3

Sebring Flight Academy.......................................46

Stewart Systems..........................................................5 The American Civil Wings Society.................... 23 LIFT Cover Photo Courtesy of

r Made the Jump To the

GETTING AIR: How A Skie

Van’s Aircraft................................................................2

Academy Cockpit pg 20

Zenith............................................................................. 31

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MENTOR

MINUTE By: Lynsey Howell

About AviNation AviNation exists to attract, educate and empower youth in aviation.

AviNation magazine strives to give readers insight into the future of aviation by focusing on aviation students, programs, events and innovative approaches to the promotion and continued growth of the aviation industry.

Staff & Contributors Publisher: Jacob Peed Copy Editor: Vicky Rink Administrative & Circulation Coordinator: Jessica Peed Design & Production: Barb Betts, Lime Valley Mankato, MN

Networking & Resumes Networking is so important and beneficial to actually getting a job. Your resume is more to prove that you have the credentials that meet the minimum requirements.

The only time I’ve needed a resume was for: 1) my very first job out of college, 2) to complete a formal interview, and 3) to show my flight hours for insurance.

I think the more valuable topic here is networking. Every flying job I’ve landed was because I knew someone or I knew someone who knew someone.

• I got a job flying a King Air because I knew someone outside of aviation who needed a copilot.

• I got a job flying a Baron and Hawker because I went to college with a pilot who recommended me to the captain he was flying with.

Business Development: Thomas W. Flavin Phone: (310) 709-0844 E-mail: Tom-flavin@roadrunner.com

• I got a job flying a Citation X because the line guys recommended me to the lead pilot.

Correspondence Editorial submissions and other correspondence E-mail: jppeed@gmail.com Phone: (515) 408-3763 www.avinationusa.com

• I got a job flying for JetSuite because a guy I flew with in the Caribbean walked in my resume to the chief pilot.

Advertising Phone: (515) 408-3763 E-mail: jppeed@gmail.com www.avinationusa.com Contributing Writers Afton Kinkade Ava Shelly Connor Clinkscale Cayla McLeod Dick Knapinski, EAA Haden Bourland Laila Johnson LIFT Academy Lynsey Howell Nick Poucher Republic Airways Robb Williams Shlok Misra Terry Lloyd Tori Helseth USAF: Ilma Vallee Thank you to our Cornerstone Supporters

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• I got a job flying in the Caribbean because my best friend used to fly with a guy who worked there and he walked in my resume.

• I am at my current position flying a Lear 45 because that same captain from 14 years ago needed a copilot again.

So what is networking? To me, it’s just a fancy business word used to describe making and maintaining relationships. Why is it so important? Because you’re more likely to get a job when someone sticks up for your character and even more likely when it is someone from within the organization. But you have to be a person that someone wants to work with. Do you have a sparkling personality?

I don’t care how amazing your credentials are, if you have a bad attitude you’ll probably struggle to get hired.

So the first step in getting a job is to practice the art of networking; meeting people and maintaining relationships. Once established, have a stellar resume that shows off how awesome you are!

@AviNationUSA

@AviNationUSA

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O T H T A T P A E Y S M E LEFT TH BY

PILOT AT A “ PRINCESS PARTY”

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I am a student pilot who is workingPher way towards r ty ” s Paold syears e the captain’s chair. Yes I amP only 13 and c in r “ not old enough to solo, but that has not stopped me so far! My dream is to follow in the footsteps of my personal hero International Aerobatic Champion Ms. Patty Wag-staff. Well, eventually I would like to fly aerobatic air shows on the weekends and Captain the Twin Otter aircraft for NOAA during the week.

My passion for aviation started as a small child, like 2 or 3 years old. As I looked into the sky I saw these machines soaring, I was completely mesmerised. My mother told me that those were airplanes and there are people who drive them called pilots. I asked can I do that when I grow up? She said the magic words, “of course you can!” Seriously since then I have always known I wanted to be a pilot.

I even attended a friend’s princess themed birthday party when I was 5 years old wearing a flight suit!

Yes, a princess themed party and I went as a pilot!!!

Of course everyone always asks me, “so who in your family is a pilot?” I am always quick to respond “ME!” You see my Dad is in the power sports industry, and my Mom was a teacher. She has since cut her hours to take me to all of my extra curricular things.

Once I introduced her as my Uber driver at a huge

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conference out in California, but that did not go so well !?!

My Dad started me with some simulator training at around 6 years old. However, my first actual flight lesson was at around 7 years old. Trust me that was tough, I was tiny! In fact I was born at 26 weeks weighing only 1 lb 10 oz. At 3 years old I only wore like 18 month old clothing. My Mom called MANY flight schools before someone was willing to take up a tiny aviation crazed 1st grader who was roughly the size of a preschooler.

However, that first time behind the yoke was a magical experience!!! I felt so free, yet so comfortable, I knew I was on the right path!

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LITTLE OLE’ME CO-PILOTING FOR THE DAY

Little ole’me co-piloting for the day

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FO so much that I joined. I was one of the I joined EAA’s Young Eagles program at 8 years old.

I loved WAI TI N G POR E R ON It is a program for youth interested in aviation to take founding of the WAI Tampa Bay Chapter and SSmembers T LE H G I FLhave even been elected as their Brand Ambassador. actual flights with pilots. The EAA presents a flight log to the participant on their first flight and even sign off We have awesome monthly meetings about all things time in your log! They have definitely helped me log a aviation, tours and such. I have even gotten to be a few flights! Around the same time, my Mom found out guest speaker at a few different events we have had about the Women In Aviation International Conference over the years. I love to volunteer at various air shows in Orlando. when I can and share my passions with fellow aviators!

Maybe even help someone else find their passion.

I really wanted to go because my hero Ms. Patty Wagstaff was speaking. I had seen her fly, but never Flight School Association of North America or FSANA met her in person. That same year for Halloween I even for short has also been a huge push for my aviation dressed as Ms. Patty, so I had to wear her flight suit pursuits. They awarded me the honor of becoming to the conference! Obvious choice right?! Everyone their Youth Envoy. My role as the Youth Envoy is to at WAI was super nice and made sure I got to meet inspire today’s youth to get involved in the aviation my hero! They even photographed Ms. Patty and me industry. I have had the privilege to attend various together and the photo made the WAI magazine. events throughout the United States to speak to many Ummm super awesome! people, not just youth about the importance of Youth

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EN N N GL H O J TH E B ERS E OF M EM SO M N U G

HAVING FUN AT THE WAI BOOTH

PREPPING FOR MY AIRBUS 320 TRAINING

in Aviation. At a FSANA conference I met the kind folks at Aerostar and they gave me the opportunity to fly an Airbus A320 simulator! A little nerve racking with the news crew filming me, but I got to fly an Airbus!

With the help of my parents we even found a middle school that is sponsored by NASA for me to attend in Tampa, Florida. My school has an Honor Society Program for students interested in Aerospace and Aeronautics they call the John Glenn Top Gun Academy. We do lots of fun volunteer work and take amazing trips to various aviation related industries, have cool guest speakers like astronauts, rocket scientists, even awesome trips to places like Kennedy Space Center!

At 12 years old I joined the Civil Air Patrol Unit at MacDill Air Force Base and have had an amazing time. This past year I have done a rocketry bivouac that was basically an overnight camping trip completely focused on rockets. Dare I say a blast!

We do lots of different things. We march in parades, help with community related volunteer work, learn about the military, but most importantly about ourselves. Heck, I even got to do a ride along on a KC-135 flight! You know, the big planes that refuel other airplanes in the air. Totally top secret. We were not even allowed to know where we were flying until wheels up.

Mom and Dad found out wheels down. We flew from Florida to Alabama and back. So far I have worked and advanced to Cadet Senior Airman.

In fact, this year I was honored to attend WAI’s 2020 Conference in Orlando with United States Air Force Major Afton J.Brown. She is a C-17 & T-1 instructor pilot! Saying she is cool is an understatement!!!

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TOP

WITH THE “FLY LIKE A GIRL”

CADET KINKADE(ME) & MAJOR

CREW AT SCAD FILM FESTIVAL;

AFTON J. BROWN OF THE

CONSULTANT:JILL MEYERS,

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE

MYSELF, DIRECTOR:K ATIE WIATT, PRODUCER : MATTHEW WIATT

However, my proudest moment so far was this past year. I was blown away to be selected as a feature aviator in a movie documentary called, “Fly Like A Girl”. “Fly Like A Girl” is a documentary about female aviators that no longer want to take a back seat to aviation.

What an honor to be able to share my drive and passion as well as other women who have my same beliefs. It has been a crazy fun adventure being a part of this amazing documentary. I even got to attend a few red carpet events meeting so many wonderful people along the way.

My path into aviation is ever evolving and to say I love it is an understatement. I’ve built models, read books, received newsletters, gone to airshows, attended aviation conferences, avid Lego enthusiast/ builder for all things that fly, and joined numerous groups (EAA, FSANA, WAI, CAP, AMA). Basically, I immerse myself in any and everything in my pursuit for the left seat. You see for me aviation is my self expression, my comfort, my passion. On the ground people are quick to judge. “You are just a kid, you are too young, you are too small, you are just a girl,” I have heard it all! You see an airplane does not care about any of those things. An airplane allows me to soar like a bird, have these amazing views, chase rainbows. That adrenaline rush of climbing into the seat, hands on the yoke, the sound and feel of the engine as I race down the runway and take flight is well, nothing short of spectacular.

I definitely plan on continuing on my journey into aviation. I have found my happy place and never want to lose that! Maybe, just maybe along the way I can inspire someone else to follow their own dreams and passions, regardless of what they might be. Remember, now is the perfect time to follow your passions. If I can do it so can you!

BEING INTERVIEWED FOR “FLY LIKE A GIRL” DOCUMENTARY

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MY GRANDFATHER

by Ava Shelly

My grandfather, John Shelly, was the first person to introduce me to flying. He was only twenty years old when he received his private pilot’s license and flew for forty years after that. He was an ATP rated SEL, MEL, SES, MES, CFI, CFII, Glider and ANP pilot with over 30,000 hours of logged flight time. When he was in his late sixties, he began a runway project in North Carolina for space launch vehicles. This required intense communication and authorization from the FAA. Flying has always been a big part of his life and his passion. Last summer, he requested a copy of all of his FAA licenses and gave them to me as motivation. When I was eight, he was already teaching me how to read aeronautical charts and maps, Morse Code, and the phonetic alphabet. My tenth birthday present from him was a discovery flight at the local flight school. Ever since we took off, I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Sadly, he died from congestive heart failure last September. He is remembered by a very large and loving family in St. Louis.

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The Christmas before he passed, we took a family trip to St. Louis. My father surprised me with a flight lesson at the Spirit of St. Louis Airport, the same place my Grandfather learned to fly. It was very special to have him with me as we flew around the St. Louis Arch, Busch Stadium, and the neighborhood he grew up in.

When I fly now I feel him there with me. It is like he is still in the passenger seat, beside me, helping me learn.

We had a very special bond and similar qualities, ambition, bravery, kindness, and a mutual love for adventure, and always up for a challenge. My Grandfather helped me become who I am today with the support of my loving family. He meant the world to me and he changed my mindset about overcoming obstacles and failure. He is the main reason I am who I am today. He has inspired me to be fearless. With hard work and dedication, I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. My Grandfather always made me feel confident about any decisions I made, just like my parents do now. I know he is looking down on me, seeing my progress, and helping clear the stormy clouds out of my way.

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USAF Captain

ILMA VALLEE

By: Ilma Vallee

to opportunities to earn my wings. The next thing I knew, I had enlisted and was completing boot camp at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.

My goal at the time was to make the most out of my four years—to learn different skills, get out and utilize the Air Force college scholarship programs. To begin my Air Force journey, I had to pick a job, and I had no idea what I wanted to do. There were countless options and opportunities, but I was fairly young and didn’t have many skills to speak of. I realized as a newly enlisted Air Force member with no training, I wasn’t able to hop in a cockpit right away, so I figured I would become a cook in the Force Support Squadron (FSS).

“Žiurek kaip graziai musu pasaulis atrodo,” my mother said in Lithuanian as we both stared out the window of the aircraft. This was my first time on an airplane, as we crossed the Atlantic Ocean en route to the United States to start a new life. Born in 1988, when Lithuania was part of the Soviet Union, I never even dreamed of flying across the Atlantic Ocean, let alone someday becoming a pilot. It was that day, at 11 years old, that I looked out the window of the aircraft and decided I wanted to earn my wings.

My mother and I eventually settled in Redondo Beach in Los Angeles, California. L.A. was much different than my Lithuanian roots; however, I did my best to learn English and fit in with the American culture as quickly as possible. Over time, my English skills sharpened, and I was able to make some friends.

Senior year of high school I worked as a bagger at an Albertsons grocery store. The possibility of becoming a pilot or even going to college was not an option for me at the time. College cost money, scholarships required good grades, and unfortunately, I had neither of those things. Not wanting to bag groceries for the rest of my life, I began looking for opportunities to get out of the house and into the world.

On something of a whim, one day my stepfather recommended that I see an Air Force recruiter. After doing some research, I realized it could be a good way to earn a living, go to college and pave the way

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Which is exactly what I did. I was trained at the FSS cooking school and received my first duty assignment to Travis Air Force Base, California. I worked nights to cook for the late shift Airmen, and I enjoyed it. Most importantly, I was out of the house, working on my own and enjoying my new friends while living life in the dorms. At this point in my Air Force career, I was settling in rather well to a life behind the line and had no idea how many career opportunities lay ahead of me. Little did I know that with my hard work and determination, once the first door opened, so many more would follow.

It was with this hard work that drove my first big opportunity toward my dream to fly. An officer in my FSS squadron noticed my determination and told me about the option of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) Prep School, where people attend to study and also compete for direct admission to USAFA. He said it would be a challenge and I would have to prove myself, but after one year if my performance stood out, I would earn the opportunity to attend USAFA and become an officer.

At the time, I wasn’t sure if this is what I wanted, but my dream to be a pilot was ever present in my mind, and this seemed like it would be my best shot to make it a reality. Thankfully, this officer helped me put together a great admissions package and I was accepted to the USAFA Prep School.

The next year was a blur. I moved to Colorado Springs, performed well at the prep school, and was accepted to USAFA. I was extremely excited, but also nervous.

I never felt as though I excelled at academics, and I knew the Academy was a challenging school, so I had my doubts about the program and if I would be able to earn a pilot spot. My intuition had been correct, and

the academics were very challenging for me. I decided to study Foreign Area studies, which I enjoyed but also had to put in a great deal of work to keep my head above water. However, if there has been one constant in my life, it’s that I must work hard and stay focused on my mission if I am going to succeed. Once again, paid off and after four difficult years I graduated as the Thunderbirds flew overhead. I became a Second Lieutenant with a pilot training spot. I felt at that moment as though I had made it, but of course, the work as I knew it, had only just begun.

If I had found USAFA difficult, I had no idea what I was in for with pilot training. Military pilot training was to be the most difficult hurdle I have faced, even to this day. We started training immediately after my arrival at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas. Pilot training was like going to the moon for me; I couldn’t have felt more out of place. I was the only female in my flight, an immigrant and I found that I struggled tremendously with my adopted English language. It’s one thing to speak conversational English as a second language, but to absorb the systems and components of an aircraft and to read technical manuals without a full understanding of obscure words, was a whole new challenge.

The hardest part I found was my own self confidence or lack of it. Every day I would look around at my classmates and wonder, “What am I doing here?

I don’t belong with these people.” Everyone seemed to understand the systems, many of them had engineering degrees and seemed so smart compared to how I viewed myself. When I would look around, I did not look, talk or carry myself like the rest of my classmates. This thinking led me to believe that perhaps I wasn’t cut out to be a pilot and maybe I would be better off in a different career field.

To some degree, these thoughts were familiar to me; I had always been something of an oddball. I arrived in the United States unable to speak English, from a small Eastern European nation with only a few million people, and mostly, I was a young female who wanted to be a pilot. I was used to being told my ideas were crazy, I was used to the challenge of rejection and, most importantly, I was used to the hard work I knew I had to do to overcome these thoughts and challenges, which is exactly what I did.

When I had moments of doubt in training, I would dig even deeper, using these thoughts as motivation to continue working toward getting my wings. Before I knew it, the year was over, and I was the proud recipient of my shiny new pilot wings. Everything I had worked for after all of these years had come to fruition and now, I was a Pilot in the U.S. Air Force. I was assigned to fly the KC-135 Stratotanker at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida, and it was a dream come true. Through it all I learned that as long as I worked hard, listened to mentors and stayed focused on my mission, I could accomplish anything. I learned that the training would take care of my apprehension, and the intimidating switches, buttons and lights weren’t so scary once I understood them and could relax to let my knowledge takeover. Now, after 14 years with the Air Force, a thousand flying hours, a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, I look back on my decision to join the Air Force as the best decision I ever made. I now get to impart my skills to a new generation of flyers as an instructor at Randolph Air Force Base and as a motivational speaker.

What’s most important to me is the joy and amazement I feel from flying has never lost its charm.

Even now as I fly across the Atlantic, eastward this time, sitting not in a passenger’s seat but in the pilot’s seat, staring out upon the sky above the ocean, I still hear my mother’s words in my ear “Žiurek kaip graziai musu pasaulis atrodo.” What a beautiful world it is indeed.

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by Terry Lloyd

Kids in Space

Did you know that the Department of Defense (DoD) has a number of working StarBases across the United States, and some of them have been in operation for the last 27 years? There are actually 69 StarBases across the continental U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.

While the term StarBase evokes visions of spaceships docking in orbit around exotic planets, or ground facilities to launch probes into the vastness of deep space, these StarBases exist to launch young people into careers in science, technology, engineering, and math, or STEM. Each StarBase, located on an Air Force, Army, Marine National Guard, or Reserve base, provides students 25 hours of “hands-on, minds-on” according to the Department of Defense website.

Examples include spending time in an F-18 simulator learning the science of aeronautics or exploring the interior of a submarine to help understand the laws of physics.

The StarBase Program focuses on 5th graders and has a StarBase 2.0 after school program for 6th-8th graders. The goal of the program is to spark interest in the STEM fields early enough so that students can make logical choices to pursue more focused opportunities, such as Civil Air Patrol, while they continue their education. During the school year, the program typically runs for five weeks, five days per

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week. There are also summer academies run for one five-day week.

A special focus of StarBases is serving areas, such as inner-city urban or rural areas, which are traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields. At-risk youth, students with low academic performance, and those that have a disability are in the StarBase target group.

DoD’s StarBase program is sponsored by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, in recognition of how important educating young Americans in the STEM fields are to achieving and maintaining our leads in these fields.

As with all things related to education, the COVID-19 pandemic has put all Star Base programs on hold until school systems resume normal activity, or at least until new post-pandemic protocols emerge in the overall educational system. One new StarBase location is really a “star base” itself, sort of. The program will soon start up at the Air Force’s 45th Space Wing, which operates the Cape Canaveral launch complex, and provides essential infrastructure and range support for the National Air and Space Administration (NASA) Kennedy Space Center’s two adjacent launch pads. These pads are where Americans, departed for the moon and where the Space Shuttle program operated for decades.

For more information on the Department of Defense’s StarBase Program, go to https://dodstarbase.org/

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GET A HEAD START AS A

by Shlok Misra

Attending college is a significant milestone for any person irrespective of their background, income, or culture. Going to college is not only about getting through the prescribed classes and holding that diploma but also about living an experience that takes you from a high school graduate to a nurturing professional who is ready to step into the corporate world. While the journey of starting as a freshman to graduating typically revolves around fulfilling the graduation requirements set forth by the university, successful graduates prefer to take up additional challenges along the way to enrich this journey.

This can include research projects, honors-level coursework, study abroad tours, international exchange programs, or even internships in companies.

Going to college to pursue a field in aviation will take you through a similar path.

Students can attend a variety of programs that prepare them for a career in the aviation industry in various universities around the United States.

Degrees can span from management and finance to engineering and maintenance to operations and safety. Aviation is a very vast and diverse field that welcomes students with a variety of skills and backgrounds. I attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science. This degree allowed me to pursue my lifelong dream of being an airline pilot. However, as an aspiring pilot, I had the option of attending other universities such as Purdue University, University of North Dakota, Western Michigan University, Auburn University, and many more. College counselors and professionals from the field can help you pick the university that best suits your needs and aspirations.

COLLEGE

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While completing the requirements of my degree, obtaining my flight certificates, and maintaining a high GPA were on top of my priority list when I attended college, I was looking for additional opportunities that could help set myself apart as a college student as well. I strongly believed that thousands of students graduate every year in my university and I needed a spark in my portfolio as a student to help set myself apart from the crowd.

Fuel your passion with research I got my first taste of undergraduate experience in my sophomore year when I participated in a research poster competition organized by the University Aviation Association. I always saw research as something for the ‘geeks’ and the ‘nerds’. I imagined research as something that involved spending hours in a lab or in front of a computer reading or writing long scholarly texts. While reading and writing scholarly texts is a major component of research, the process of building successful research projects involves so much more. The prospect of interacting with other students who share the same interests, managing funds and budgets, attending national conferences, and accessing advanced software and programs were some of the aspects of research that retained my passion for research. The research journey that started with a poster competition has transcended into authoring five journal papers and being involved in various funded projects. The satisfaction of being recognized and contributing to the subjects I love is something that keeps me enticed for more.

READ & RESEARCH

FUTURE AVIATOR Students wishing to pursue careers in aviation have a plethora of opportunities to conduct research in aviation. Depending on the specific field that a student wishes to pursue within aviation such as management, finance, safety, engineering, or flight operations, there are different focus areas that your efforts can be tunneled towards. Some areas I have researched as an Aeronautical Science student whose course works focuses on flight operations are aviation safety, human factors, and pilot training. Some other topics that I find fascinating are aviation efficiency, clean energy in aviation, block chain technology in aviation, and artificial intelligence in the cockpit. The scope of research in aviation is immense and students who are willing to dedicate time and effort are in for a real treat.

SEEK ADVICE

Some helpful tips for students who are looking forward to pursuing a career in aviation and want to pursue research are: 1) Read! Make sure to be well updated with the latest in the industry. You do not only need to read large scholarly publications.

You can subscribe to aviation blogs and magazines online and be well updated. Lookout for the latest developments from the FAA and other agencies in the country. You never know where your next research idea will grow from. 2) Have an advisor who wants to see you succeed. This advisor can be a high school teacher or counselor or even a senior student. Discuss and brainstorm ideas that can help you develop as a researcher and a professional. 3) Talk to friends and teachers. Have constructive conversations with friends, colleagues, and mentors. Many research ideas develop from rather mundane conversations. Keep your eyes and ears (and possibly nose!) open to ideas and feedback at all times. A successful researcher is always learning and looking for ideas. A researcher is like an entrepreneur who is developing a business. Your research project is like your company and its success depends on your passion and commitment.

The most exciting part of research is not all types of research require lavish equipment. Even high school students interested in pursuing higher education in aviation can kick start their research experience by collaborating with local Fixed Based Operators (FBOs) and local county airports. Some potential research topics for smaller airports could include general aviation usage patterns, safety issues faced by pilots, and possible noise abatement improvements. Local airport managers would always be willing to provide opportunities to future aviators.

LEARN & LOOK

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GET A HEAD START AS A FUTURE AVIATOR continued...

Get a dive into your future career with an internship Companies around the US and the world look for interns throughout the year. While the summer is the most preferred time to intern for most college students, many students pursue internships throughout the year. An internship is your first taste of the industry and as a professional in your field.

You get first-hand training on areas you will work in the future. While the classroom curriculum gives you the foundation that you will need for the industry, internships can help you develop your personality and professional portfolio that will help you land a full-time position after graduation. Internships are yet another tool that can help you stand-out as a student.

As a student who is pursuing a degree that is focused on aviation operations and flight, I focused my internship search on flight operations, dispatch, and safety. I landed my first internship in a business aviation company in my home town, Dubai. I was part of the flight operations team and spent three months in the operations control center for the global operations of the company. This was my first opportunity to see how an airline works. I got the

COLLABORATE

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opportunity to assist dispatchers in planning flights, arranging permits, and troubleshooting emergencies.

The three-month experience was an eye-opener for me as I got a first-hand view of the complexities that are involved in the operation of a global airline. I learned things that were impossible to learn in a classroom setting. My second internship was another three month stint at an airline in Dubai. I assisted in the Flight Data Monitoring department of the company. The Flight Data Monitoring department was responsible for gathering flight data from every flight and processing the data for flight operations quality assurance and safety. Such a scientific dive into flight safety made me fall in love with data analytics and visualization that lead me to currently pursue a Master’s degree in Data Science at Embry-Riddle.

I could never have imagined the amount of data that is received by analysts daily and how data can be processed to investigate incidents and make safetycritical decisions for the airline. Additionally, I got to assist the flight dispatch department and get a sneak peek into the daily operations of an international airline.

While internships help you develop your insights and knowledge about the industry, a vital advantage that I believe people tend to overlook is your personal development. I believe that I came out of my internships more mature and responsible. My internship experience solidified my passion even more and made me even more excited for the future.

The amount of practical knowledge you gain is unparalleled.

Whether you want to pursue your career in an airline, business aviation organization, aircraft manufacturer, or an engineering company, you will have plenty of internship opportunities available to you. Airlines like Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines have well-developed and structured

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Wide Range of Aircraft! internships for college students that range from marketing and management to operations and engineering. Obtaining an internship can be an exhaustive and competitive process. You are not only competing with students in your own university/school, but also with students from other universities and in some cases with students from other countries. Some great ways to get your foot ahead is by developing your resume/portfolio from high school itself. Try to involve yourself in projects and volunteering opportunities that can help you stand apart. Try to get a job or a volunteering opportunity as a high school student in a local airport. While your dream might be to work for a legacy airline, you can always start early and start small by working in a local county airport. After all, it’s aviation that we all love.

• • • • • •

Aviation is a dynamic field with constant changes. It is a field that rewards energetic and curious people who are willing to take that extra step for success. Right from your first solo in an aircraft to your first job, it’s a journey that can seem frustrating at times, but the rewards are immensely satisfying. Students looking to pursue careers in aviation have a wealth of opportunities awaiting them and there is no better time to pursue a career in this industry.

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GETTING AIR: HOW A SKIER MADE THE JUMP TO THE COCKPIT

Nick Alexander always knew he wanted to fly. Even as a skier, he couldn’t wait to be airborne.

Growing up in Lebanon, New Hampshire, Nick, his parents and sister lived near the base of a ski area and ski jump. Nick could see the ski jumps from his window and remembers watching people jump at night. He started skiing when he was 8 or 9 years old. “The very first lesson, I asked if I could try ski jumping, but my instructor insisted that I learn how to ski first.” Determined to jump, Nick set out to teach himself. “I jumped everything on the ski hill I could find to develop my skills. A year later, I finally got my chance and started jumping on small hills learning the basics of ski jumping,” Nick said. “I worked my way up to bigger and bigger hills doing my best to frighten my parents as much as possible!”

That determination eventually led Nick to regional events where he was noticed by a coach who insisted Nick move to Lake Placid, New York. His parents sent Nick to the National Sports Academy in Lake Placid to train and finish high school. He competed in national events during his time there. And just kept getting better and better.

Hello, Olympics After graduating from high school in 2007, Nick was invited to Austria to train for a summer. “I learned how the Austrians train and jump. It was a pivotal time in my career, and I made huge strides during that time.”

Meanwhile, Nick had developed an interest in flying planes and was accepted to Embry-Riddle. At the same time, Nick was invited to join the U.S. national ski team. “I put off the opportunity to attend Embry-Riddle and chose to compete with the team. I knew I could always go back to school later and pursue my dream of flying as an airline pilot.”

As a member of the national team, Nick went on to compete throughout Europe and Asia for nine years, culminating in not one but two Olympics: 2010 in Vancouver, Canada and 2014 in Sochi, Russia. “The experience was wild. The events I had competed in before on the World Cup circuit had a great deal of show and fanfare, but the Olympics was like the World Cup cranked up to 11! In Sochi I was able to walk in the opening ceremonies, which completely blew my mind. That experience made me truly feel like I was at the Olympics.”

Making the Jump to Flying Nick took three years between the end of his skiing career and the beginning of his next career: becoming a pilot. When he learned about LIFT Academy, he was intrigued.

“I always knew I wanted to transition into flying after ski jumping, but I could not find a really good way to do it that fit where I was in life. Then one day I was cruising through my Google app when an article popped up about a new flight school opening in Indiana,” Nick says. “I was intrigued by the flow from flight school to airline with a focus on airline-style training, and I found the Embraer 170 to be a really tempting airliner to fly. So I applied, was accepted and am now on the verge of becoming a flight instructor.”

Nick found some of his skills and experiences as a skier helped him transition easily into pilot training. “While there was some assistance from teammates and coaches during my jumping career, a lot of the progress made was by putting my head down and working hard on my own time, which gave me a good work ethic. Another interesting thing has been my experience with check-rides and stage checks,” Nick shares. “I find these to be extremely similar to competition. The check-ride jitters are very similar to the butterfly feeling I used to get before competitions; I even find myself using some of the same tactics to prepare for a check-ride that I used to prepare for competition.”

A Final Word from the “Captain” Whether you’re a high school student or someone who is transitioning from one career to another like Nick did, his advice is the same: “Go for it! If it’s something you’ve always wanted to do or something that you’ve discovered, you won’t find a more fun way to spend your time—and you can’t beat the views!”

As for his future, Nick had this to say: “I am looking forward to the professionalism that you develop along the way and the opportunities that await. Also, I’m looking forward to one day being addressed as “Captain Alexander!”

Are you ready to make the jump to the cockpit? Check out the opportunities at flywithlift.com and apply online.

We promise, you’ll get even more air time than an Olympic ski jumper!

@flywithlift

I’ll Fly Away

by Laila Johnson

Hi, my name is Laila and I am thirteen years old. The first time I ever flew in an airplane was at a Young Eagles event when I was about nine or ten years old.

It was a Piper PA 28-236 Dakota. The Young Eagles program has dedicated more than 25 years to giving kids and teens ages 8–17 their first free ride in an airplane. The pilot even let me fly for a little bit on my own! I was immediately hooked on flying. My mom noticed my newfound interest in flight, and she contacted Cape Fear Aviation School and a CFI named Elayne Humphrey. Miss Elayne showed an interest in me because I am homeschooled. She homeschooled her children, and we found we had much in common.

She loved my passion for learning about airplanes. I currently attend Cape Fear Aviation School twice a month. I do one day of ground school and one day with flying instruction in the aircraft. I try to fly as

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much as possible, but I missed many months of flight training since the coronavirus. I plan to have well over my 40 hours of flying to apply for my license when I’m seventeen. I would love to be able to fly around the country, or maybe even the world. There are many careers available to pilots. I could be a private tour pilot and fly small groups to and from their vacation destinations. I might join Aviation Without Borders, which is the aviation chain that bridges the link to the last mile between the generosity of the people of the USA and the people in need. Or, I could fly my friends and me to exciting places around the world!

It’s a Family Thing Life at Republic Airways looks a little different. We’re good with that.

The year was 1974, back when bell-bottom blue jeans were popular the firsttime around and, believe it or not, “Star Wars” wasn’t even a thing yet. That was the year that Republic Airways was formed, and while a lot of things have changed in the last 46 years, the culture at Republic hasn’t. We’ve always been a company that feels more like a family.

A Family of Innovators While everyone in the aviation industry strives for innovation, Republic endeavors to step outside the box and look at things with a fresh perspective. From our partnerships with universities across the country for career pathways, to our commitment to the community engagement and service, to our investment in all our Associates’ training as well as personal and professional growth, we are a company that steps the regional airline game up a notch.

And while we do believe our Associates set us apart in the aviation industry, we wouldn’t be much of an airline without planes! Our fleet of 200 Embraer 170/175 aircraft are state-of-the-art. From the time our pilots train in our simulators to the time they spend in the cockpit, they rave about the EJet. Because safety is our top concern, we invest in innovative training and technology that ensures the safety of our passengers and crew.

A Family of Compassion Republic’s Guiding Principles state that we will: Be good stewards of our resources Encourage a culture of fun and action Strive for excellence in everything we do Trust, respect and care for one another A major way we live out those principles is through our Corporate & Community Responsibility programs.

Republic is committed not only to serving people in need in our community and around the world, we are dedicated to creating a place where each of our Associates can engage and share our passion for service. Our Associates have the opportunity to participate in events and efforts that benefit causes under our three pillars of support: Children and Education, Global Health and Wellness and Military and Veterans.

A wonderful example of how we put our principles in motion is through our participation in Honor Flights.

These flights transport U.S. veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials dedicated to honor the service and sacrifices of themselves and their friends. Our Republic crew members volunteer for these flights, and any one of them will say emphatically that it is their pleasure to be able to give back to our military veterans through these flights.

Whether it’s participating in an Honor Flight, a military letter-writing campaign, being on a Plane Pull team or providing shoes to children, being a member of the Republic family offers the opportunity to put your passion in gear. We are dedicated to creating a place where each of us can engage and share our commitment to service.

A Family of Fun You may have noticed that our Guiding Principles also say “encourage a culture of fun and action.” We take every word of our Guiding Principles seriously—so you’d better believe we have some serious fun! Whether it’s sending pizza from our Indianapolis headquarters to a crew at a base in another city, or making a really big deal out of our Associates’ birthdays, or throwing a party for our Associate Celebration, or working together as a team in the Corporate Challenge, we believe in bonding over good times. The care and concern we have for one another is genuine. We believe that when we spend time getting to know each other, we have happier and more productive

Learn more about Republic at rjet.com @RepublicAirways

Beech Model 99 Skystream - 1974

Today: A fleet of state-of-the-art Embraer 175s Associates. Plus, who doesn’t like having a good time at work?

A Family of Diversity Besides our Guiding Principles, Republic also operates by our Mission (“Together we provide a safe, clean and reliable flying experience”), our Vision (“With the BEST People, Products and Performance we will be America’s regional airline of choice”) and our Culture Statement, which says: “We believe that every Associate, regardless of personal beliefs or worldview, has been created in the image and likeness of God. We seek to become stronger from our diversity. We seek personal respect and fulfillment from our work. Most of all, we seek to recognize the dignity and potential of each member of our Republic Airways Holdings family.”

Again, we take those words to heart and are proud of our diverse and accepting culture. Since 1974, we have operated on the idea that we are better together. And as we move forward, we will continue to not only make Republic a place that feels like family, but one where everyone’s opportunity is elevated.

TRIPLE TREE AERO

26

DOME

By Robb Williams and Cayla McLeod

27

There’s a place in the upstate of South Carolina where aviators unite to experience fun,

fellowship, and hospitality. You won’t find any wi-fi, but you will find a place where every aviator is encouraged to come and escape from the stress of everyday life.

Pat Hartness established the Triple Tree Aerodrome in the late 1990’s after he and his many friends outgrew the airstrip in his backyard in Greenville, South Carolina. Looking for a new place for his friends to fly, Pat purchased a 400-acre tract of land 30 minutes southeast of Greenville, in the small town of Woodruff, South Carolina. Pat’s dream was to create a place for all of his friends to fly their general aviation and radio control airplanes. Little did he know that he was making one of the nation’s most beautiful aviation destinations.

After purchasing the property, Pat and his team of eager volunteers went to work on developing this forgotten about land into an aviator’s dream. They

worked diligently to clear a path from the north end of the property to the Enoree River at the south end.

After years of hard work, this path would become the immaculate 7,000-foot grass runway 3/21 that is the cornerstone of the property.

In 2010, the Triple Tree Aerodrome was established as a 501c3 non-profit organization to properly “ignite and expand the passion for aviation”. In that same year, Pat Hartness gave the land he purchased to the 501c3 as his “gift to aviation”. With the help of many volun teers, Pat was able to take Triple Tree from a grassroots fly-in at his house to a world-renowned aviation destination.

The Triple Tree Aerodrome recently celebrated its 10th year as a non-profit organization. During that time, The Triple Tree Aerodrome has taken on a life of its own by hosting over 10 aviation related events a year attended by thousands of guests from across the globe.

The crown jewel of our General Aviation calendar is the Triple Tree Fly-in. Each September, thousands of general aviation enthusiasts land on our runway or cross through our welcoming gates to spend an entire week at Disneyland for pilots! Highlights of the week include guest speakers, such as the pilot for Elvis Presley and industry leaders from AOPA, EAA, and the South Carolina Aeronautics Association. There are also hands-on workshops in partnership with Greenville Technical College. Perhaps the most popular part of the Triple Tree Fly-In is the delicious food served every night of the event. Dishes include anything from BBQ,

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TRIPLE TREE AERODOME

to our famous cook your own steak night! Don’t forget about our legendary “Taste of Triple Tree” which treats our guests to 19 different food tasting stations.

Adding to our General Aviation Calendar is Triple Tree’s commitment to “expand and ign ite the passion for aviation”, by establishing the Young Aviators Fly-In. This event was founded in 2018 with the goal of inspiring one future aviator to pursue a career in aviation. In 2019, Triple Tree decided to form the first-ever Young Aviators Council of selected young aviators from across the United States as the event has

grown. The council directs, coordinates, and plans the Young Aviators Fly-In. No other organization puts so much trust in aviation’s future by “handing them the controls” to our organization for the weekend.

In addition to the regularly scheduled events, Triple Tree is also home to the Aviation Centered Education portfolio or ACE for short. ACE is one of the most comprehensive offerings of aviation opportunities for students of all ages. Each program is designed to target a specific need within our aviation community and is offered at a free or reduced cost.

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TRIPLE TREE AERODOME The year 2020 has seen challenges for our nation and the Triple Tree Aerodrome was not immune to these changes. The COVID-19 global pandemic forced the cancellation of all our revenue producing events.

Faced with our new normal, the Triple Tree Aerodrome did not sit in a holding pattern waiting for further clearance. We went to an alternate route by hosting “Camp and Fly” events. These events were held on designated weeks with state and local agencies’ support to encourage our aviation family to come and camp at Triple Tree. (Camping was open on selected weeks and all campers were pre-registered and space was limited to help maintain compliance with CDC guidelines). We have many amenities like a regular campground, but we also have runways, rivers, hiking trails, and more to enjoy. These events were split into weeks for our Radio Control and General Aviation friends. The response has been overwhelming, and we look forward to hosting more of these designated camping weeks in 2021.

To learn more about our 2021 schedule of events at the Triple Tree Aerodrome, and how you can donate to honor our 10 years as a non-profit please visit www.tta.aero. The Aerodrome is also on Facebook at @TripleTreeAero.

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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

BY: HADEN BOURLAND

Video Game to

Left Seat My name is Haden Bourland and I am a senior at Presbyterian Christian School in Hattiesburg, MS. My interest in flying started when I was about four years old. There was a video game, Aces of WW2, at the pizza place in town that I loved to play when we would go there. I was so little that sitting in the “cockpit”, my feet didn’t even touch the floor and I had to sit up on the edge of the seat to reach the controls.

My mom said people would stand around behind me and watch me fly. It wasn’t even a game that you could win tickets for, you just got to fly, which was fine with me. It was that same year that I got to go to my first airshow, at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS. That was the first time I got to see the Thunderbirds fly. We have been to airshows just about every year since then.

When I was in Kindergarten I got to meet three of the original Tuskegee Airmen from WW2. They were Lt. Col. Leo Gray, Lt. Col. Herbert Carter, and Col. Charles McGee. They came to the African American Military Museum which is in

32

downtown Hattiesburg.

There was a local artist there also that had painted a picture of their three planes and was selling prints of it.

My parents bought a print and each pilot autographed their plane and I got my picture made with each of them. I actually met three great aviators that flew “Redtails” and were a part of the “Greatest Generation”!

At the time I thought that was pretty cool, but I now realize how special that really was. Colonel Charles McGee, now Brigadier General Charles McGee, was promoted to Brigadier General in December 2019 shortly after his 100th birthday. From what I have read about him, he has flown more combat missions in WW2, Korea, and Vietnam than any other Air Force pilot. And he is also an Eagle Scout. How cool is that!

When I was in first grade, I joined Cub Scouts. Each year we got to spend the night on the U.S.S. Alabama, which at the time was the

greatest thing ever. But when I crossed over to Boy Scouts, we got to go camping and go to the Blue Angels Homecoming airshow every year. That was awesome! While visiting the National Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola, I heard about the National Flight Academy. It is a camp you can go to for a week in the summer.

One of my fellow Eagle Scouts, Chad Filbey, who already had his private pilot’s license at the time, and had already attended the camp, encouraged me to go. I went and I’m glad I did. It was like living on an aircraft carrier for a week, complete with all the sounds of planes landing on deck day and night. You’re assigned to a squadron and even given a call sign.

Mine was “Talon” because

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> My name is Haden Bourland and I am a senior at Presbyterian Christian School in Hattiesburg, MS. My I’m an Eagle Scout. We flew simulators on mock interest in flying started when I was about four years missions, which included night traps on the aircraft old. There was a video game, Aces of WW2, at the carrier. That part was the most fun but also the pizza place in town that I loved to play when we would most challenging. We also got to go see the Blue go there. I was so little that sitting in the “cockpit”, Angels practice. I had a blast and made friends my feet didn’t even touch the floor and I had to sit with people from as close as Florida to as far as up on the edge of the seat to reach the controls. My Alaska. mom said people would stand around behind me and watch memy fly.friend It wasn’t even a game could Since Chad already hadthat his you pilot’s license winand tickets for, you just got to fly, which was fine knew I was interested in flying, he invited with my me.mom It was that same year that I got to gothe to first my first and I to go fly with him.

I think time airshow, at Keesler in Biloxi, MS. Hattiesburg.

That was the first we flew with himAFB we flew all over time I got see my the school, Thunderbirds fly.house, We have We flewtoover over my overbeen our to airshows just about every yearItsince then. friend’s houses, everywhere. was so cool! When you fly in a big jet like you do when you’re going When I was in Kindergarten I got to meet three of on vacation, you fly so high that you don’t really the original Tuskegee Airmen from WW2. They were get to see all the cool stuff that you do from a Lt. Col. Leo Gray, Lt. Col. Herbert Carter, and Col. much lower altitude. The second time he took us Charles McGee. They came to the African American flying, we flew from Hattiesburg – Laurel to Stennis Military Museum which is in downtown Hattiesburg.

(Bay St. Louis, MS).

There was a local artist there also that had painted a picture of their threeflight planes selling That was a longer andand he was showed meprints the of it.

My parents a print andflight” each pilot basics of whatbought a “cross country is all about. autographed their plane andone I got my picture made We went flying with him more time and after with each of them.

I actually met three great aviators that I decided I wanted to become a pilot. He thatgave flewme “Redtails” and a part of the “Greatest the name ofwere his instructor, Mr. Ronnie Generation”!

AtIthe timelessons I thought that was pretty Bishop, and started shortly thereafter. cool, but I now realize how special that really was.

I nowCharles have almost 30now hours and wasGeneral about to solo Colonel McGee, Brigadier Charles when Covid-19 started.

I was able to fly three McGee, was promoted to Brigadier General in cross country trips before we100th had tobirthday. stop. The December 2019 shortly after his first was toIMeridian, It was nighttime From what have readMS. about him,a he has flight which was neat because landed flown more combat missionswe in WW2, at night at an airport I had never Korea, and Vietnam than any been to before.

The second other Air Force pilot.

And was to Natchez, MS. he is also an EagleIt was a daytime flight.

Scout.

How cool

When I was in first grade, I joined Cub Scouts. Each year we got to spend the night on the U.S.S. Alabama, the Mississippi River and also the Emerald Mound which at the time was the greatest thing ever. But which I had been to before on a field trip for when I crossed over to Boy Scouts, we got to go school. It was cool to see it from the air. On the camping and go to the Blue Angels Homecoming third cross country, we flew from Hattiesburgairshow every year. That was awesome! While visiting Laurel to Ocean Spring, MS, then turned and flew the National Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola, the coastline all the way to Bay St. Louis, landed at I heard about the National Flight Academy. It is a Stennis, then back to Hattiesburg-Laurel. That was camp you can go to for a week in the summer. probably the longest flight so far. When we were flying Bay St.Eagle LouisScouts, we were ableFilbey, to see the One ofover my fellow Chad faint outline of the tall buildings in New Orleans. who already had his private pilot’s license at That was a surprise.

I wasn’t expecting to be able the time, and had already attended the to see New Orleans from there. camp, encouraged me to go. I went and I’m glad I did. It was like living I hope to start back flying again soon on an aircraft carrier for a week, and hopefully get my private pilot’s complete with all the sounds license before I graduate in May. of planes landing on deck I plan to attend Delta State day and night. You’re University in the Fall of assigned to a squadron 2021 and major in Flight and even given a Operations. call sign.

is that!

We flew over

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33

VIDEO GAMEBOURLAND TO LEFT SEAT CONTINUED....

BY: HADEN

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Video Game to Mine was “Talon” because I’m an Eagle Scout. We flew simulators on mock missions, which included night traps on the aircraft carrier. That part was the most fun but also the most challenging. We also got to go see the Blue Angels practice. I had a blast and made friends with people from as close as Florida to as far as Alaska.

wanted to become a pilot. He gave me the name of his instructor, Mr. Ronnie Bishop, and I started lessons shortly thereafter.

I now have almost 30 hours and was about to solo when Covid-19 started. I was able to fly three cross country trips before we had to stop. The first was to Meridian, MS. It was a nighttime flight which was neat because we landed at night at an airport I had never been to before. The second was to Natchez, MS. It was a daytime flight.

Left Seat

Since my friend Chad already had his pilot’s license and knew I was interested in flying, he invited my mom and I to go fly with him. I think the first time we flew with him we flew all We flew over the Mississippi River and also the over Hattiesburg. We flew over my school, over my Emerald Mound which I had been to before on house, over our friend’s houses, everywhere. It was a field trip for school. It was cool to see it from so cool! When you fly in a big jet like you do when the air. On the third cross country, we flew from you’re going on vacation, you fly so high that you Hattiesburg-Laurel to Ocean Spring, MS, then don’t really get to see all the cool stuff that you turned and flew the coastline all the way to Bay do from a much lower altitude. The second time he St. Louis, landed at Stennis, My name is Haden Bourland downtown greatest thingthen ever.back But to took us flying, we flew from Hattiesburg – Laurel Hattiesburg.

Hattiesburg-Laurel.

That was probably and I am a(BaySt. senior at There was a local artist there when I crossed over to the longest to Stennis Louis, MS). flight so far.

When we werewe flying Presbyterian Christian School in also that had painted a Boy Scouts, got over to goBay St. Louis we werecamping able to see outline of the Hattiesburg, MS. My interest picture of their three planes andthe gofaint to the That was a longer flight and in tall buildings in New Orleans.

That was a surprise. flying started when I was about and was selling prints of it.

Blue Angels Homecoming he showed me the basics I wasn’t expecting to be able to see New Orleans four years old.

There was a My parents bought a print airshow every year.

That of what a “cross country from there. video game, Aces of WW2, at and each pilot autographed was awesome! While flight” is all about. We the pizza place town that I went flying within him loved to play one more timewhen we would go there.

I was so little that and after that in the Isitting decided I “cockpit”, my feet didn’t even touch the floor and I had to sit up on the edge of the seat to reach the controls.

My mom said people would stand around behind me and watch me fly. It wasn’t even a game that you could win tickets for, you just got to fly, which was fine with me. It was that same year that I got to go to my first airshow, at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS. That was the first time I got to see the Thunderbirds fly. We have been to airshows just about every year since then.

When I was in Kindergarten I got to meet three of the original Tuskegee Airmen from WW2. They were Lt. Col. Leo Gray, Lt. Col. Herbert Carter, and Col. Charles McGee. They came to the African American Military Museum which is in

their plane and I got my visiting the National Naval I hope to start back flying again soon and picture made with each of Aviation Museum at NAS hopefully get my private pilot’s license them. I actually met three Pensacola, I heard about the before I graduate in May. I plan to attend great aviators that flew National Flight Academy. It Delta State University in the Fall of “Redtails” and were a part of is a camp you can go to for a 2021 and major in Flight Operations. the “Greatest Generation”! week in the summer.

At the time I thought that One of my fellow Eagle was pretty cool, but I now Scouts, Chad Filbey, who realize how special that already had his private really was. Colonel Charles pilot’s license at the McGee, now Brigadier time, and had already General Charles McGee, attended the camp, was promoted to Brigadier encouraged me General in December 2019 to go. I went shortly after his 100th and I’m birthday. From what I have glad I read about him, he has flown did. It more combat missions in was like WW2, Korea, and Vietnam living on than any other Air Force an aircraft pilot. And he is also an carrier for a Eagle Scout. How cool is week, complete that! with all the sounds of When I was in first grade, planes landing on deck I joined Cub Scouts. Each day and night. You’re year we got to spend the assigned to a squadron night on the U.S.S. Alabama, and even given a call sign. which at the time was the Mine was “Talon” because

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

I’m an Eagle Scout. We flew simulators on mock missions, which included night traps on the aircraft carrier. That part was the most fun but also the most challenging. We also got to go see the Blue Angels practice. I had a blast and made friends with people from as close as Florida to as far as Alaska.

the Mississippi River and also the Emerald Mound which I had been to before on a field trip for school. It was cool to see it from the air. On the third cross country, we flew from HattiesburgLaurel to Ocean Spring, MS, then turned and flew the coastline all the way to Bay St. Louis, landed at Stennis, then back to Hattiesburg-Laurel. That was probably the longest flight so far. When we were flying over Bay St. Louis we were able to see the faint outline of the tall buildings in New Orleans.

That was a surprise. I wasn’t expecting to be able to see New Orleans from there.

Since my friend Chad already had his pilot’s license and knew I was interested in flying, he invited my mom and I to go fly with him. I think the first time we flew with him we flew all over Hattiesburg.

We flew over my school, over my house, over our friend’s houses, everywhere. It was so cool! When I hope to start back flying again soon you fly in a big jet like you do when you’re going and hopefully get my private pilot’s on vacation, you fly so high that you don’t really Col. Charles McGee Lt. Col. Leolicense Gray before I graduate inLt.May. Col. Herbert Carter get to see all the cool stuff that you do from a I plan to attend Delta State much lower altitude. The second time he took us University in the Fall of flying, we flew from Hattiesburg – Laurel to Stennis 2021 and major in Flight (Bay St. Louis, MS).

Operations.

That was a longer flight and he showed me the basics of what a “cross country flight” is all about.

We went flying with him one more time and after that I decided I wanted to become a pilot. He gave me the name of his instructor, Mr. Ronnie Bishop, and I started lessons shortly thereafter.

I now have almost 30 hours and was about to solo when Covid-19 started. I was able to fly three cross country trips before we had to stop. The first was to Meridian, MS. It was a nighttime flight which was neat because we landed at night at an airport I had never been to before. The second was to Natchez, MS. It was a daytime flight.

We flew over

Saying Thanks

LAC’s First Responders Fly-by

by Nick Poucher Back on June 12, 2029, three Lakeland Aero Club members and our President pushed our airplanes out of our hangar for a fly-by to show support for our medical heroes and first responders.

Just three weeks earlier a small group of Aero Club members were eating lunch in the midst of a global pandemic trying to figure out a plan for how our club would be able to operate in the future. As a youth flight club we have a unique situation in that it is not an option to totally shut down our flight operations for a prolonged amount of time. While we are able to limit flight operations it is in the best interest of our pilots to remain proficient and our aircraft to continue flying.

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It is also our belief at the Lakeland Aero Club that teaching and practicing formation flying is one of the best ways to create better skilled and sharper pilots.

While some of our members began talking about how and when we would be able to go up and do some formation practice the idea to do a fly-by of our local hospital came up. When we came back to the idea and started planning for what we would need to do to pull off the fly-by, one of our members who was volunteering with the fire department threw out the idea of also flying by the fire station. Soon it went from just the hospital to also including the Lakeland fire department, Lakeland police department, and multiple Polk county sheriff’s office substations and became an event to support our local community.

Specifically the people who still had to go to work and put themselves at risk while most people stayed home due to COVID-19.

EAA AEROEDUCATE INITIATIVE HELPS YOUNG PEOPLE EXPLORE AND CULTIVATE AVIATION INTEREST by Dick Knapinski AeroEducate, the newest youth aviation initiative from the Experimental Aircraft Association, will bring an interactive, educational, and engaging experience to young people ages 5 to 18 years old beginning in 2021.

AeroEducate’s web-based resource provides clear, ageappropriate pathways to aviation and aerospace engagement, and even career paths. A multitude of turnkey, easy-to-use aviation-themed activities for teachers and EAA chapters can be used at sites ranging from classrooms to EAA chapter hangars.

“What EAA has created with AeroEducate is a wide-ranging program where a child can reach specific goals in aviation that are achievable, affordable, and engaging,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board.

Among the elements of AeroEducate are: • Badging Program – designed to motivate engagement and continued discovery • Career Pathways – demystifies the journey, regardless of area of aviation interest • Classroom Activities – aviation-infused to help educators spark interest among youth • Database of Youth Aviation Activities – creating nationwide opportunities to participate As part of AeroEducate, EAA is partnering with aviation industry leaders to develop specific career pathways that include professional pilot, air traffic controller, maintenance technician, engineering, and aviation business. United Airlines’ Aviate

program led the way in late 2020 by becoming the first industry partner in AeroEducate.

EAA is developing educational components with North Carolina State University, encompassing an aviation focus that can be used in both traditional and non-traditional learning environments.

That flexibility is especially useful as online and distance learning has become more prevalent over the past year. The activities focus on STEM principles, and follow Common Core Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and technology and literacy standards. In addition, the teaching activities that are being developed for EAA AeroEducate are available at no charge and are easily adaptable to existing curricula.

“AeroEducate aims to take that youthful discovery and fascination with flight into a positive direction that builds goals and fun for young people, as well as resources for their parents, teachers, and local mentors,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programming.

Development of AeroEducate programming will continue through the first half of 2021, with further updates and announcements also coming at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in late July.

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Wally Funk for

By: Tori Helseth

SPACE EXPLORAT instrument, multi engine, and seaplane. She became a flight instructor at 20 years old. Wally also participated in some air races. Wally Funk, Like many women, wanted to go to space, but no women had been to space yet. Men were seen as the primary source of physical strength and mental capabilities at the time.

The men in charge of the NASA program said these attributes were needed in space exploration.

As a new female pilot, there are many female aviators that have inspired me to fly. Katherine Stinson, Beryl Markham, Patty Wagstaf, and others. An aviator I’ve had the pleasure to learn about and admire for her grit and spirit is Wally Funk. I had the pleasure speaking with Loretta Hall, a well known author who is writing a biography with Wally Funk about her life and career as a female aviator. It was a team effort when it came to dreaming up the book. Loretta, being a known author, and Wally, having an inspiring story to be told, came together to collaborate on the biography.

Loretta says “[Wally] has done some amazing things in her life and accomplished things that were very unusual for women to accomplish at the time she did them.”

Mary Wallace Funk, flying professionally since 1957, and still flying!

Some people like Jackie Cochran and Dr. Randolph Lovelace, believed otherwise. He was serving as chairman of NASA’s Special Advisory Committee. He thought women would be a great advancement of space exploration. In such ways that they are smaller, lighter, and eat less food making them ideal space explorers. So, Dr. Lovelace decided to privately fund the first women in space program.

Women were intrigued by the space program, including Jerrie Cobb, 1959 Woman of the Year in Aviation.

Of course, Wally signed up.

Introducing the Mercury 13 The women enlisted in the training are known as the Mercury 13. All of the women were skilled airplane pilots. At age 21, Wally was the youngest of the women in the “Women in Space program”.

Wally Funk was a child when she took interest in aviation. As a child Wally was inspired by other aviators such as Amelia Earhart, but Loretta says “ Her Mother was her biggest inspiration. ”Her mother was very supportive of Wally’s pursuit of flight. Wally was constantly building model aircraft; her mother just knew she was going to fly.

To become an astronaut, there are many tests one has to endure to test physical and mental capabilities.

Loretta and Wally will explain more in the book.

Doctors had to take several x-rays, reflex tests, provide extensive hearing tests, and more to ensure these women had what it took to become astronauts.

The women in the space program did their tests individually or in pairs, whereas the men all together.

Wally Funk excelled at many of those tests, even excelling higher than the men on some tests.

Wally got her pilot’s license in 1958. She got many certifications and ratings such as comercial,

The Mercury 13 women had to endure vertigo; that sounds unpleasant. The test was done by injecting

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TION very cold water into the woman’s ears. According to those who have had vertigo it is indeed very unpleasant. The women had proven that they physically and mentally had what it took to become astronauts. Even their piloting skills were top notch.

Things were looking good for these women.

No Space for the 13 Enduring all the trials to become astronauts, Wally nor any of the Mercury 13 were picked for space exploration. Unfortunately for the Mercury 13, there were still those who did not want women involved in the space program. Male astronauts such as John Glenn, a member of the Mercury Seven, argued against their space advancement.

Loretta says that Wally still hopes of going to space, she has not given up! She has taken tests and simulations in the hopes of still getting there. She has

collaborated with private companies in hopes of getting to space. Even though Wally wasn’t picked to go to space, she was able to accomplish much more.

She taught hundreds of student pilots how to fly. She participated in the Pacific Air Races and the Palms to Pines Air Races placing well. In 1975 Wally won the Pacific Air Race from San Diego, California to Santa Rosa, California against 80 participating competitors.

She became the first female Federal Aviation Administration safety inspector in the 1970s, as well as the first female Accident Inspector. One of Wally’s favorite sayings is “the only thing A Woman needs to compete in a man’s world is Ability.”

Women Finally Advance to Space Women were not considered to be launched into space until astronaut Sally Ride became the first American woman in space in 1983 on STS-7, and Eileen Collins was the first woman to pilot the Space Shuttle during STS-63 in 1995. Wally and some of the other Mercury 13 were special guests for Collins’ launch.

Both of these events were great historical moments for women aviators!

Loretta Hall and Wally Funk’s book is out and can be purchased on Amazon. Check out some of Loretta’s other books such as Space Pioneers: In Their Own Words, Out of this World: New Mexico’s Contributions to Space Travel, The Complete Space Buff’s Bucket List, and Miguel and Michelle Visit Spaceport America.

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Wally Funk for

SPACE EXPLORATION

I hope you all are inspired by the story of Wally Funk. She is a great role model for women today or any period!

From Wally, Loretta, and I, “Enjoy flying and stay safe!”

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FLYING TODAY. Hello, My name is Connor Clinkscale. I am a student pilot at Centennial Aviation Academy (CAA) in Atlanta, GA. I am twelve years old and have been flying planes for over nine years now. Flying has been my passion and I am taking flight lessons to prepare me for a career in aeronautics and space travel. I would like to take a few moments to elaborate on my background, experience and people that have inspired me on my journey of becoming an aeronautical professional and astronaut.

MY BACKGROUND No. My dad isn’t a pilot. Neither is my mom. In fact, there isn’t one pilot in my entire family! My interest in aviation and space is all my own. I have been flying planes and collecting real flight training hours with CAA Centennial Aviation Academy (CAA) since I was three and a half years old. My goal is to get my pilot’s license when I turn 16 years old so I can ultimately train to become an astronaut. Flying is not something that many kids my age get to do and it builds my confidence to know that this is preparing me to do great things in the future.

My journey towards becoming a pilot began as my family and I were visiting the James S. McDonnell Hangar at the National Air & Space Museum in Washington, DC. While we were exploring the museum exhibits, we came across a hangar that had the space shuttle Discovery inside. I was immediately interested in everything about this space shuttle. I wanted to, and I quote, “fly the space shuttle away and go to space that day”. Even though the United States space shuttle project was shut down in 2013, I still want to be able to fly into space and accomplish my childhood dream of becoming an astronaut.

After noticing my interest in becoming an astronaut, my parents made arrangements for me to take flight lessons.

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MY EXPERIENCE In addition to flight training with CAA, there are a few other areas I have trained in to also further equip and prepare me for space travel.

Every summer, I attend a number of space related camps including Space Camp at the Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama and Space Camp at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. I have attended these camps for several years in a row. I have also studied space extensively at school and I have given many presentations to students in other states and countries. I was invited to speak to a class of students in Houston, Texas and I was also invited as a guest lecturer to visit Havana, Cuba. Speaking in Cuba on the topic of space and aeronautics was especially significant because the students are rarely exposed to students their age and younger who have career aspirations like mine. It showed them that anything is possible, and it showed me how fortunate I am to live in a country where I am able to study and pursue a career in aviation and space.

SOARING TOMORROW. By: Connor Clinkscale

WHO INSPIRES ME? I now would like to mention a few other people who inspire me to be the person I am today. One of these people is Alyssa Carson. I admire her because she is the only person to have completed all seven of the space camps in the entire world.

She also aspires to be an astronaut. She shares her story with the world which allows other kids like me to follow her and to aspire to do many of the exciting things that she does.

Another person I aspire to be like is Charles “Charlie” Bolden.

As the former head of NASA and an astronaut, I aspire to be like him because he has gone to space before. I want to be able to travel to space, as well.

Another person I admire is Victor Glover. I was fortunate to meet him on a visit to Texas. I aspire to be like him because, like Charlie Bolden, he is African American, and has spent many years training to make his dreams of traveling to space come true. He is currently on SpaceX’s first operational crew launch!

And recently, I received a special invitation from former NASCAR Race Car Driver, Mike Ciochetti. Mr. Ciochetti invited me to his fly-in community called Heaven’s Landing to meet his friend, Astronaut Winston Scott. It was a dream come true to visit Heaven’s Landing and to spend time learning all about Astronaut Scott’s career path to space travel. He is also African American. Knowing that there are so many astronauts who look like me gives me great hope that I, too, will someday board a spacecraft and explore the great beyond.

IN CONCLUSION I truly look forward to Flying High and Soaring Tomorrow! My unique background and the many experiences I have been a part of continue to move me closer and closer to my goal every day. As I continue to grow in knowledge, it is my hope to be exposed to even more opportunities to express my interest in space and aeronautics. The people I look up to today will become my peers and trusted advisors on my journey to space in the future. I ultimately will become an astronaut because it is the most exciting career there is for me and it is something that I have strived for ever since I was a toddler. When I reach my goal, I will look back on all of my experiences and share my stories with others who have similar dreams. I will be an approachable role model and a positive example for them.

In closing, I want to let everyone know there are no limits to what we can do. We can fly airlines as children and explore other planets as adults. If we “plan it”, we can do it!

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